To provide safe roadways through efficient and timely snow and ice control. This is to be accomplished by being properly equipped, staffed and well organized.

The County snow plan covers nearly 180 miles (425 lane miles) of county roadway. At the beginning of the winter season 46,000 tons of salt stands ready to be dispersed by a fleet of 60 snow vehicles.

When ice and/or snow endanger the safety of the traveling public many factors are taken into consideration as county workers decide how to best manage the various winter driving conditions. Variables included in their decisions are the amount of snowfall, the duration and intensity of the storm, the meteorological parameters of temperature, humidity and wind force, and the availability of material, manpower and equipment. Through careful analysis and by interfacing these various factors the County provides the maximum level of service possible to the residents of Mercer County.

At the beginning of a storm de-icing materials are spread first to prevent the bonding of snow or ice to the road surface. Then, depending on the intensity of the storm, plowing operations would follow.

During a typical snowstorm, it takes approximately 24 to 36 hours to complete service to the entire County Road System. The County is only responsible for the removal of ice and/or snow from roads within the jurisdiction of Mercer County

Emergencies

The Division of Highways will provide access for emergency vehicles during life-threatening individual emergencies such as birth, illness, death, fuel deliveries or fire upon the request of either the Police Department, Fire Department, Director of Transportation and Infrastructure or the County Executive. The Chief of Highways will evaluate and respond to each such request in the most effective manner.

Mercer County does not maintain any sidewalks, including snow removal, with exception of the sidewalks adjacent to County buildings (libraries, offices, etc.). The owner of property abutting a sidewalk in a public right-of-way is responsible for removing snow from the sidewalk within 48 hours after the snow has fallen.

As a last resort, to file a complaint, contact your local Police Department (see listing above)

Helpful Tips

Vehicles should be parked in driveways and off the streets. This allows police officers, firefighters and paramedics to respond quickly to public safety tasks while driving under treacherous conditions.

Drive only when necessary and prepare your vehicle for snow conditions.

Never throw snow into streets.

Plows WILL NOT be lifted at driveways.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation in our efforts to provide the best possible snow removal service to Mercer County